Victims First which supports victims of crime and abuse across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, has launched a Live Chat service to improve access to support for victims.
The Live Chat service which is now live on Victim First’s website www.victims-first.org.uk, offers a new way to access support, enabling victims to talk online with a Victims First Officer, safely and in confidence.
Matthew Barber, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner said “Live Chat enhances our existing service, providing an additional and valuable route to support. Not everyone feels able to pick up the phone and ask for help so Live Chat will be of particular benefit to people who would prefer to make initial contact or have the whole conversation online. It also offers a discreet way for victims to access support, which is extremely important especially for victims of domestic abuse who may be living under the same roof as their abuser.
“I hope that introducing a secure online chat service will encourage victims to reach out for help. Anyone needing support can get in touch via the Live Chat button on our website www.victims-first.org.uk or by calling Victims First on 0300 1234 148 to speak to one of our trained Victims First Officers who will be able to provide free confidential emotional and practical support."
Live Chat will be staffed by trained Victims First Officers during Victims First opening hours.
Victims First is managed by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. It offers free support to any victim or witness of crime in the Thames Valley regardless of the crime, when it took place or whether or not the crime has been reported to the police.
